Miller Place campers have convenient year-round options beyond the glamping experiences currently available. Located on the North Shore of Long Island about 65 miles east of Manhattan, the area offers both Suffolk County parks and Connecticut coastal campgrounds within 40 miles. Sites typically range from $25-75 per night depending on season, hookups, and location, with most operating from April through October.
What to do
Beach access with diverse conditions: Smith Point County Park offers direct ocean access with minimal walking. "Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view. A stones throw away was one of several shower and rest room buildings. Clean and well lit," notes a camper at Smith Point County Park.
Hiking through varied ecosystems: Trails wind through coastal bluffs, pine barrens, and hardwood forests. "Short walk to the beach. Note - it is a downhill walk to the beach. The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," explains a visitor to Wildwood State Park.
Kayaking and fishing opportunities: Multiple water access points accommodate different watercraft. "You are a short walk from beach access and kayak launch. There is a playground for kids and clean facilities. I enjoy going here as it is easy for a quick weekend," shares a visitor to Indian Island County Park.
What campers like
Coastal camping with full amenities: Campsites with ocean or bay views and modern facilities remain popular. "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Our site had a trex picnic table on a cement patio. An on site firepit was cozy at night. A general store, complete with an ice cream shop window, on the grounds was a treat."
Proximity to Long Island attractions: The central location provides access to multiple destinations. "This is a very nice campground with various kinds of sites. There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby."
Versatile accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, diverse lodging suits different needs. "There are sites with electric, water but those fill up fast. It's nice for kids they have an open field with a playground for kids. There are dog friendly which was very nice. It is a lil tight from each site but you have the beach and a little hiking trails that makes it worth it."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Locations vary significantly in privacy and views. "Stayed at site 12. Sites are great overlooking the bay. I also like the corner sites as they are bigger. The 230-70 overlook the ocean which is great. Little pricey compared to nys parks. Electric and water is nice for pop up."
Weather impact on facilities: Seasonal conditions affect site accessibility. "The water was off because we were a week shy of the season opening. Needed to move to dump station prior to leaving (2 night visit) and had to drive to fill the fresh water tank once while there," reports a visitor to Riverdale Farm Campsites.
Shade and sun exposure: Tree cover varies significantly across campgrounds. "No shade so be prepared to wake early if you're in a sweltering tent. Also note this is not a quiet campground, campers stay up late drinking by the fire. Kids of all ages are generally running and playing day and night in the loud and unreserved way they do."
Tips for camping with families
Off-season visit benefits: Quieter camping experiences during spring and fall. "Wonderful weekend visit in the off season. Site was level, pretty spacious and easy to back into. Multiple playgrounds for the kids although they were closed due to Covid. There were hiking trails and geocaching on site."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Regular animal sightings enhance camping experiences. "At nite an ice cream truck comes by, you get visits from the nearby deer. The park police are a bunch of over masculine jerks and take their duty a little too far with the drinking. Otherwise, it's perfect. Just make sure to bring a can of bug spray!"
Day trip planning: Multiple attractions within short drives. "There are lots of stores nearby as well as orchards to pick your own fruits. I stayed there one weekend and went to Splish Splash waterpark that's not far away. There is also a Tanger Outlet nearby," notes a reviewer from Rocky Neck State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: RV sites have varied configurations affecting privacy. "Very nice campground. Has electric, water and cable TV connections. CG is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend," mentions an RVer at Lake Compounce Campground.
Utility availability: Hookups vary significantly across campgrounds. "Only electric 30 or 50A, and water; but there are a few dumpstations around in the camp. Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers."
Seasonal access limitations: Off-season camping requires preparation. "Sites had zero privacy and were all pull through. There was water, electric and sewer hookups at each site, but this was an expensive place to 'camp'. Bathrooms and showers were not really clean, which was surprising because most people used their personal bathroom/shower in their RV."